Not feeling like spreading holiday cheer this season? Your feelings are totally valid. Holiday depression is a very real feeling and quite common around this time of the year.
You might be noticing a disconnect between your feelings and the supposed “holiday cheer” you’re supposed to be feeling. Maybe you feel sad, lethargic, or are experiencing a persistent sense of emotional heaviness. It can be really challenging to put on a happy face, and watch others feel happy this holiday season.
Does this sound like you, or someone you know? You might be experiencing holiday depression, and you are not alone. Countless others have a hard time being cheerful during the winter months, and it’s OK to ask for help, or seek support from a professional. If you’re feeling emotionally off, we’re here to reassure you that we are ready to help.
What causes holiday depression?
Holiday depression, also sometimes known as holiday blues, is a temporary bout of sadness, stress, isolation, or anxiety that occurs during the holiday season. While holiday depression is not a recognized disorder, there are still common symptoms people experience. Some things that can trigger holiday depression symptoms include:
- Grief or loss anniversaries
The holidays can be a difficult reminder for those who have recently experienced a loss, or lost someone during the holiday season. This can be especially true if this is your first holiday season without a loved-one or family member.
- Loneliness or lack of connection
The holidays can feel overwhelmingly lonely if you find yourself celebrating by yourself. It can be particularly tricky when watching other people spending the holiday season together. It is important not to compare your situation with other people’s, even though it can feel quite tempting.
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
In most cases, SAD symptoms begin in the late fall or early winter. Symptoms can include changes in mood, or behavior, such as low energy, hypersomnia, overeating ans social withdrawal. . This diagnosis is also categorized by its recurrence, and duration of about 4-5 months. While SAD and holiday depression are not the same thing, they can have overlapping or similar side effects.
- Financial stress or family conflict
The holiday season can be quite expensive, whether buying gifts for a significant other, or playing Santa for the children in your life. The additional costs from buying presents, decorations and baked goods this season is a valid reason for added stress.
Similarly, spending time with estranged family members, or those you haven’t seen in a long time, can also bring up unwanted stresses.
- Over-scheduling and burnout
The pressure to attend holiday parties, coupled with the disruption of schedules, can be a cause of holiday depression. This season especially, there are expectations for social commitments. Make sure to prioritize your needs, and practice setting boundaries when necessary.
What does holiday depression look like?
Holiday depression can manifest in many different ways, but symptoms can look different for each client. Here are some ways holiday depression symptoms may show up:
- You might find yourself feeling emotionally “flat” or numb, and disconnected from the events taking place this season.
- You might be experiencing extreme sadness. This can look like increased crying, hopelessness or feeling like there’s no point.
- Holiday depression can look like avoiding holiday events or withdrawing from loved ones.
- You might be experiencing recurring thoughts of worthlessness, guilt, or “not belonging.
How Lightfully can help you with holiday depression
If you find yourself struggling to spread the holiday cheer this season, you are not alone. Holiday depression doesn’t mean you’re broken or that you don’t appreciate this season. It means you’re human. Lightfully is here to help you glide through this holiday season—with care, comfort and clinical support.
We have four different types of treatment options available. Our Residential Treatment Program offers 24/7 support in a homelike setting when depression becomes unmanageable. Our Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) offers structured care during the day, with intensive therapeutic support.
We also offer an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for flexible support for our clients with mental health disorders. Lastly, our Virtual PHP & IOP provides convenient support across California. These virtual care options are designed for clients with unique schedules.
The framework of everything we do consists of evidence-based, clearly defined, data-driven and whole-person-centered care. Wherever you are this holiday season, we’ll meet you there.
Change is possible. When you’re ready to take the first step, reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team. We’ll take the next steps together, toward the fullest, brightest version of you.
